Unheard of: Real Madrid sets its sights on another Barcelona target

Alessandro Bastoni has become the new standout name in the Real Madrid's strong transfer market, which is once again looking towards a player who was also on the FC Barcelona's agenda. The Italian center-back, one of the pillars of Inter Milan, now emerges as a viable option to reinforce José Mourinho's defense.

The move aligns with the white team's strategy: targeting top-level profiles, accelerating complex operations, and outmaneuvering direct competitors. After securing Marc Cucurella, progressing on Bernardo Silva, and showing interest in Julián Álvarez, Florentino Pérez has opened a serious path in Italy.

Alessandro Bastoni, a €70 million operation for Real Madrid

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Real Madrid and Inter Milan have already held high-level discussions to explore a potential deal for Alessandro Bastoni. The starting figure is clear: €70 million.

This amount deterred FC Barcelona, who viewed the Italian defender as an ideal piece to bolster their defense. Bastoni, aged 27, under contract until 2028, and with a market value close to €65 million, puts Inter in a strong negotiating position.

The first contact is said to have originated during a legends' event between the clubs. There, Florentino Pérez and Beppe Marotta discussed Denzel Dumfries, likely to join Madrid for €20 million, and also the situation concerning the left-footed center-back.

FC Barcelona sees Alessandro Bastoni deal complicating

For some time, FC Barcelona had been tracking Alessandro Bastoni as a defensive priority. His profile fit due to his age, leadership, ball-playing skills, and European experience. Additionally, the player saw a move to Camp Nou with good eyes.

Madrid's entrance changes the landscape. The white club has more financial room to maneuver and might also include a player to reduce the fixed portion. This formula would be vital if Inter Milan maintains its stance.

Barcelona is concerned that a target they have worked on for months might strengthen their eternal rival. It would be a significant sports loss and a massive market blow.

Mourinho to decide between Bastoni and Ruben Dias

The final decision rests with José Mourinho. The Portuguese coach already has Konaté as a right-sided center-back and Rüdiger renewed, but he seeks another high-profile piece. This is where Bastoni comes in, though he is not the only candidate.

Ruben Dias' name has also been considered by the white team's sports management. The Manchester City defender is liked for his leadership and experience, though his price might be more complex. Hence, Bastoni gains importance as an alternative of exceptional quality being naturally left-footed.

Inter Milan not planning to give away their center-back

Inter Milan's stance is firm. Bastoni is a beloved player among the fans and crucial to the project, but a multi-million sale would fund two or three new signings. The Italian club will only entertain a fitting proposal.

The player will also play a significant role. In the past, he turned down offers from the Premier League, and his preference seemed to lean towards Barça, but the new scenario might make him reconsider his plans.

Alessandro Bastoni is now at the center of a market battle with many dimensions. For Real Madrid, it would be a high-profile signing and a strategic move; for Barça, a painful loss; and for Inter, a challenging sale but perhaps crucial to reshaping their squad.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, INAUDITO: El Real Madrid se fija en otro deseo del Barcelona